8mm Forum: Derann Blackpool SHOCK!

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Posted by Adrian Winchester (Member # 248) on March 26, 2011, 04:07 PM:

As anyone who has read the Derann newsletter will have seen, the lower attendance at the Blackpool convention last year resulted in serious consideration being given to whether the event would be held this year. Thankfully, it will be, but it was a close thing. I'm pleased that Derann have been open about this and made it clear that it's now a 'use it or lose it situation', as the loss of one the two oldest and most important film collecting events in the UK would be a terrible blow to 8mm collecting.

I think that those of us with great affection for the event need to heed Derann's request to boost it by spreading the word and encouraging other collectors and friends to come along. Without doubt, non-collectors with an interest in film can find it a friendly and enjoyable weekend. We also need to encourage support for the Saturday dinner, which will be in a larger room this year.

So, we have about 7 months to ensure that this convention survives beyond this year. Let's get organised, and think about ways to boost the publicity, sharing transport, etc. We can't leave it all to Derann. If you're one of the collectors who want to come but never manage it because something always comes up, why not put it in your diary NOW, make it a firm commitment and only miss it if it's a matter of life or death!

I persuaded a collector from London to make his first visit last year and he thought it was great weekend despite regulars knowing it was below-average, so new recruits will have a even better time if we can restore the 'buzz' to this event.

[ March 26, 2011, 08:14 PM: Message edited by: Adrian Winchester ]

Posted by Yanis Tzortzis (Member # 434) on March 26, 2011, 07:51 PM:

...you're right Adrian,saw it on Friday & thought'is the end of UK conventions on its way'? Hope not,but with BFCC going down to only once a year & Blackpool in danger don't know how optimist we can be
for the future...anyway I always attend & hope to mobilise the Greek element for the next one--we'll see.....

Posted by Simon McConway (Member # 219) on March 27, 2011, 05:18 AM:

I've downloaded my form for Blackpool 2011 from the Derann website (Events page) and have already sent it off. It's a joy!

Posted by Osi Osgood (Member # 424) on March 27, 2011, 09:05 AM:

Its a dang shame that I just don't have the finances to travel like that over to the UK, but if my plans for a breakthrough happen, (and this convention being seven months away), I can hope that I'll finally be able to attend one of these!

Posted by Rob Young. (Member # 131) on March 28, 2011, 11:14 AM:

Yes, it's not entirely suprising to read, but still a bit of shock.

I always cajole the family into going so that's 5 or 6 through the door each year.

As has been stated in other threads, I don't think one big convention is the answer and wouldn't increase numbers as the BFCC and Blackpool, both brilliant in there own ways are in such distant locations to each other.

But what's the answer? The lack of new releases has to play a part, but then what can we really do about it?

Also it seems that there just aren't as many dealers anymore who can justify the expense and effort of trading on the day.

Don't get me wrong, I'm as sad as anyone else to read about Blackpool and wish both conventions all the very best of continued success, but what else can we do???

Posted by Lee Mannering (Member # 728) on March 31, 2011, 01:05 PM:

I’m with you Adrian 100% and likewise believe those of us who are fit enough need to spread the word as much as possible. Each cine customer who comes through my office door once I complete a job for them gets given a handout with each UK event listed so I hope this helps Derann and everyone else who puts in so much effort supporting all these events.

WE ALL NEED TO DO OUR BIT.
THINK BRITISH AND ABOVE ALL THINK FILM!

Posted by Michael O'Regan (Member # 938) on March 31, 2011, 01:13 PM:

quote:
THINK BRITISH...

What does this have to do with anything????

Posted by Lee Mannering (Member # 728) on March 31, 2011, 01:17 PM:

Twas a joke Michael.
Think Humour then? [Big Grin]

The Derann Open Day is also on SUNDAY 3rd July 2011.

Posted by Osi Osgood (Member # 424) on March 31, 2011, 01:17 PM:

Don't know ... but I'm sure that all nationalities are more than welcome there, and the british have far less distance to travel. [Big Grin]

Posted by Michael O'Regan (Member # 938) on March 31, 2011, 01:19 PM:

quote:
Twas a joke Michael.

OK. I'm too sensitive [Big Grin]

Posted by Lee Mannering (Member # 728) on March 31, 2011, 01:25 PM:

It's Ok Michael I find a bit of a funny always makes bad news seem better.

Just downloaded the Derann booking form for Blackpool 2011 and so easy to do.
LINK: www.derann.co.uk/index.php?webpage=vents
Happy Days!

PS Adrian. Last year I offered to transport some collectors to the event who were stuck for transport being old. It also helps save the environment for our kids and beyond.

Posted by Rob Young. (Member # 131) on March 31, 2011, 04:47 PM:

Spreading the word is one thing; and I totally agree, but where does that leave us regarding new releases and the situation with dealers?

I know of the massive efforts of fellow forum members getting new super 8 product out there...and a huge bravo to them!!! [Smile]

Also, news from the otherside is that dealer attendance at the B.F.C.C. will be outstanding...

I wonder how we, as film fans can help, other than turning up at the door....... [Confused]

[ April 01, 2011, 01:25 AM: Message edited by: Rob Young. ]

Posted by Lee Mannering (Member # 728) on April 02, 2011, 03:35 AM:

It is a difficult one Rob and perhaps the best we can do is support the events we are able to and dealers. For my part it is a great place to enthuse about the hobby as well and we are all still learning about film. To end my post on a positive note I’m really looking forward to each end every one of these events, meeting people and joining in. I sincerely hope those who are in a position to will also make a real effort to and a continued one to support the events over here.

Posted by John Clancy (Member # 49) on April 02, 2011, 04:14 AM:

Hear, hear Lee.

Posted by Rob Young. (Member # 131) on April 02, 2011, 07:21 AM:

Yes, the conventions never fail to be a special day out; and John (and Keith) the new venue for the BFCC looks fabulous!

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